Liverpool made a concerted effort to sign Paris Saint-Germain forward Xavi Simons this summer, according to Bild reporter Yvonne Gabriel.

The journalist said that the Reds were “extremely keen” on securing the Netherlands international’s signature before he rejoined RB Leipzig on loan. There is a possibility that the transfer could be revived in the future with Gabriel claiming that Simons is interested in a move to English football:

“That’s why he took on a new adviser a year ago, the Englishman Darren Dein Dein’s father David – a former co-owner of Arsenal – was an integral part of the formation of the Premier League. Darren naturally has top connections on the island, but it’s fair to say that the whole league has long had Xavi on its radar. Liverpool were also extremely keen on him this summer. There is a good connection to coach Arne Slot.”

That “connection” to Slot could prove important, considering the number of clubs that will be interested in signing Simons next year.

Several Premier League teams have been linked with the player

Over the last few months, the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal have all been mentioned as potential suitors for Simons.

The Dutchman’s ability to play as no.10 or right across the front three makes him an extremely attractive target, especially as he is still only 21 years of age.

Liverpool will have to pay a sizeable fee for Simons

PSG have reportedly slapped an €80m (£68m) price tag on the player and his performances for Leipzig this season may end up deciding how many clubs are willing to match the valuation.

Simons has had a good start to the campaign for club and country. He has scored 1 goal and provided 1 assist in 3 appearances for Leipzig, while he bagged a goal for the Netherlands against Bosnia during a 5-2 win last week.

Find out who is in Liverpool’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here